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To recognise a chick flick requires two simple steps. First you look at the colour of the pictures, if the images scream of loud, warm and dreamy colours, you can be 80 percent sure. Then you look at the story, if it deals with heartbreaks or unrequited love, it is no doubt a chick flick.

However there are distinctions within the genre should you care to look closer. If the characters quote a dead poet or a dead writer, or try to speak like one, you are watching a Woody Allen film; but if someone fiddles with a musical instrument, most likely it is a John Carney production.

In 2006, John Carney's musical "Once" received wide acclaim from the critics and audience members, particularly for its original score and the actors' spontaneous performances. Seven years later, the Irish director presented the world with another low-budget movie "Begin Again", with an equally pleasant soundtrack and originality.

Starring Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo and Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine, the story centres on a talented young girl who suffers a setback in a cherished relationship. She meets a middle-aged man, who is undergoing a bit of crisis of his own, but happens to be a gifted music producer. The man recognises her musical talent, and convinces her to record an album.

By now most of you would have figured out the ending of the film. Yes, yes, the recording process helps the troubled characters walk out of the shadow to begin a new chapter of their lives. That's what chick flicks do, they try to highlight the positive side of life and make viewers feel good.

But despite the stereotypical storyline, "Begin Again" is not without pleasant surprises. The secret lies in the way the album is recorded. While enjoying the Oscar-worthy, original scores by Danielle Brisebois and New Radicals frontman Gregg Alexander, viewers are also given a tour of the streets of New York City. And if Kiera Knightley's presentable voice isn't enough to impress you, Adam Levine certain deserves extra credit.

Woody Allen likes to show off his literary learning, while John Carney believes in the magic of music. Carney may not as productive as the old man, but he nonetheless shares the same sincerity in his obsession.